Grow QC and the QC Chamber missions remain strong heading into 2026
Grow QC and QC Chamber missions remain strong heading into 2026
“With economic development now housed under Grow Quad Cities, we’re able to focus on helping companies grow, invest and succeed in this region, expanding beyond our industrial base to include mixed-used and riverfront development opportunities,” said Peter Tokar III, President & CEO of Grow Quad Cities and the Quad Cities Chamber. “At the same time, the QC Chamber is sharpening our work around small and minority business resources, advocacy and business connections. As the CEO for both organizations, my goal is to ensure these two organizations are aligned, focused and delivering clear value.”
Here’s a look at what both organizations have been focusing on to date:
Grow Quad Cities
Grow QC has increased its visibility through targeted outreach to site selectors, developers and investors. This includes outreach to new developers, participating in major site selection and development conferences, and revamping regional marketing tools. A new Grow Quad Cities website is in development, marketing materials are being refreshed and Grow QC LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram are now active.
Grow QC recently completed the Top 100 High Priority Jobs Report, identifying the region’s most in-demand careers. The report is now guiding conversations with employers, educators and workforce partners to better align talent pipelines with regional industry needs.
One example is the continued exploration of launching a local chapter for the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) program for maintenance mechanics — a high-demand occupation identified in the report. This private-public partnership has gained interest from manufacturers and Eastern Iowa Community Colleges.
Grow QC is also preparing to launch CareerLinkQC, a new work-based learning and career-matching website designed to connect employers with students and job seekers. The website will support internships, apprenticeships, job shadows, workplace tours and more at no cost to participating employers. A pilot phase is being developed, with opportunities expected to be live in 2026.
Quad Cities Chamber
Guided by a renewed value proposition: “Be Seen. Be Heard. Be Profitable.”, the Chamber is evolving in how it delivers tangible outcomes for our members.
Business-to-business connections remain central to the Chamber’s work. Longstanding events like Business Exchange, Coffee MeetUp and Hob Nosh bring members together to connect and build relationships. Whether a company is new, growing or simply looking to stay engaged, the Chamber is focused on creating meaningful opportunities to build relationships that support business growth.
The Chamber is also reinforcing its role in business advocacy, serving as a consistent voice for business at the local, state and federal levels. Recently, the Chamber celebrated a win for QC to Chicago passenger rail with local Illinois legislators, Sen. Mike Halpin and Rep. Gregg Johnson. A roundtable with Governor Kim Reynolds brought together business leaders to discuss property tax reform. Our upcoming Legislative Agenda is set, and we look forward to kick-off events this January.
At our recent Economic Forecast event, expert speakers Deputy Chief Economist, Kevin DePew of RSM, and Grow QC’s Senior Director of Business Intelligence, Bill Polley, gave the economic outlook for 2026.
As mentioned, a renewed emphasis on small and minority business development rounds out the Chamber’s focus. The Chamber is investing in staff, resources and time to support them in more intentional ways. This year’s Minority Business Summit in October was a strong example of that commitment, bringing together entrepreneurs, experts and partners for a day focused on learning, connection and growth.
Looking ahead, the Chamber will remain in listening mode, working with business leaders, providing practical resources and increasing visibility.
